Legislative Update - April 22, 2013

Legislative Update - April 15, 2013

Legislative Update - April 8, 2013

Legislative Update -  April 1, 2013

Legislative Update - March 25, 2013

Legislative Update - March 18, 2013

Legislative Update - March 11, 2013

Legislative Update - March 4, 2013

Legislative Update - February 25, 2013

Legislative Update - February 18, 2013

Legislative Update - February 11, 2013

Legislative Update - February 4, 2013

Legislative Update - January 28, 2013

Legislative Update - January 21, 2013

Legislative Update - January 14, 2013

Legislative Update - January 7, 2013

Legislative Update - April 22, 2013

Legislative Update - April 15, 2013

Legislative Update - April 8, 2013

Legislative Update -  April 1, 2013

Legislative Update - March 25, 2013

Legislative Update - March 18, 2013

Legislative Update - March 11, 2013

Legislative Update - March 4, 2013

Legislative Update - February 25, 2013

Legislative Update - February 18, 2013

Legislative Update - February 11, 2013

Legislative Update - February 4, 2013

Legislative Update - January 28, 2013

Legislative Update - January 21, 2013

Legislative Update - January 14, 2013

Legislative Update - January 7, 2013

Don't wait in line, REGISTER for EXPO's Early Bird rates before July 26th,
and save!

 2013 NUSERY/LANDSCAPE EXPO “It’s Your Race to Win”
Visit www.nurserylandscapeexpo.org for more information!

Welcome Party + Complimentary Drink Ticket – Thursday, August 15
TNLA Awards Dinner – Friday evening, August 16

Five Reasons to go Full Speed Ahead for the 2013 Nursery/Landscape EXPO:

    1. Gain CEUs and choose from more than 25 Education Opportunities.
    2. Save Money & Time by placing orders for the entire year.
    3. Find your company’s next product niche among the 1,100 booths on the 
        Tradeshow floor.
    4. Meet up with Old Friends and make new ones at EXPO events, the
        Welcome Party and Awards Dinner.
    5. Set yourself apart from the competition by bringing back new ideas from
        EXPO to the workplace.

One Show, Under One Roof, Creates One Excellent Experience

EXPO Education Info
Full Class Schedule
Sam Silverstein
Anne Grady
Dave Leiber

Get on the fast track to EXPO's Education for the latest information to keep your business ahead of the rest!

Don't wait in line, Register for EXPO's Early Bird Specials by July 26, 2013

***NEW TO EXPO EDUCATION***

EXPO Education All Three Days of EXPO

&

Keynote Speakers FREE with Tradeshow Admission

VISIT www.nurserylandscapeexpo.org FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE AND UP TO DATE INFORMATION FOR CEUs AND MORE

More than 25 Breakouts to choose from, there's something for everyone!

2013 EXPO's Education, Break out topics include:
     • Business Management 
     • Technology +Plant/Design
     • Pest Management
     • Irrigation
 

2013 EXPO's Education Keynote Line Up

Watch Sam's video!

Watch Anne's Video!

Watch Dave's video!

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EXPO EDUCATION OFFERED ALL THREE DAYS OF EXPO

DON'T WAIT IN LINE, REGISTER BY JULY 26TH FOR EARLY BIRD RATES!

Visit our EXPO Education Sponsor in

Booth #3016

Thank you for choosing to volunteer with TNLA. As a leader in the TNLA family, you are a big part of the puzzle of success that makes it the great organization it is. To support you during your leadership experience, we are pleased to present to you six new video training opportunities. Only five to eight minutes long yet packed with useful information, you will acquire a wealth of knowledge in a very short amount of time. 

Next week there will be no legislative update, but please look for the final 83rd Legislative Session recap on Friday May 31st.  The legislative session is wrapping up and many important issues have not been passed.  This week negotiations regarding SB 1, the State Budget, broke down twice within the Conference Committee.  Democrats are pushing to restore the $5.4 billion cut from public education from last session, and Republicans are pushing for a reduction in the State’s franchise tax and water funding.  It is more complicated than I have stated, but this is the crux of the debate.  They have until May 24th to pass the budget and if they fail to do so there will be a Special Session.  If you recall, a balanced budget is the only piece of legislation that is required to pass.  Here is an interesting article by the Texas Tribune. 

Funding for Transportation infrastructure and funding for the State Water Plan is also in question.  If these issues are not resolved, then there will be a Special Session called to address the pressing needs of the State.  These issues are critical to the nursery/landscape industry.  We have to have water, water infrastructure and the ability to transport our products across the state to sustain our businesses. 

The legislation your TNLA Lobby Team has been engaged with still seems to be in good shape.  We were faced with some possible problems most of the week with HB 2062, the rainwater harvesting bill.  We opposed this legislation in House Committee because it would remove the ability for irrigators to install and maintain rainwater harvesting systems.  Negotiations transpired with the author and an amendment was added to the legislation on the House Floor to ease our concerns.  This amendment, along with other amendments, was not acceptable to the plumbers group who originally had the bill filed.  Multiple conversations and meetings with House and Senate offices allowed us to protect the irrigators and ensure their ability to install and maintain rainwater harvesting systems.  Thursday morning HB 2062 passed out of the Senate committee and is now headed to the full Senate for debate.  We foresee no obstacles at this time.  Once passed in the Senate, the House author of the bill will concur on the Senate Amendments, and the legislation will go to the Governor for signature.

Overview
Here are some interesting statistics of the flow of the legislation session along with looming deadlines the House and Senate are facing:

• May 17: Last day for the House to consider local House bills on second and third reading.
• May 18: Last day for House committees to report Senate bills and joint resolutions.
• May 19: Last House Daily Calendar with Senate bills and joint resolutions must be distributed.
• May 20: Last House Local & Consent Calendar with Senate bills must be distributed.
• May 21: Last day for the House to consider second reading Senate bills or joint resolutions on the Daily or Supplemental Calendar.

On Monday of this week TNLA bought lunch for Governor Perry and some of his staff.  Sid Miller, TNLA Contract Lobbyist, was also in attendance.
Thank you for your attention and feel free to contact me with questions and/or comments.

Jim Reaves
Director, Legislative & Regulatory Affairs
jim@tnlaonline.org

Endorsed Services and Member Benefit Partner News

Integrity Merchant Solutions, our newest Endorsed Services Provider, now offers TNLA members exceptional rates on payment processing. But how do you know if you're getting the better deal? 

TNLA members can now ask all the questions they've never been able to get answered before, plus great rates on their payment processing. Call Rich Kling at 407-883-2246 or visit integritymerchantsolutions.com.

TNLA is proud to announce our newest member benefit partner -- Austin Web and Design

Through their Affinity Relationship with TNLA, Austin Web and Design now offers TNLA members exclusive savings that are sure to please. Whether you need a new website or monthly maintenance, this new member benefit partner is sure to deliver.

Member Benefit Partners

These companies offer TNLA members discounts for their products or services:

NEW! Austin Web and Design -Professional web design or maintenance of existing sites. 5% discount. Contact Isaac Simon for details and a quote.

LegalShield - Legal rights protection for employers, employees and their families. Initiation fee waived. Contact George Ellison at (512) 791-8791 for more details.

Tim Bushong Productions - Advertising jingle writer. Up to 40% off pricing depending on location. Contact by phone (512) 656-6211 or via email.

SOH Productions - Customized web TV channel for your company and on-hold message production. 15-20% discount. Contact Ron Smith at (614) 523-3535 or via email.

What is an Endorsed Services provider?

As a service to TNLA Members and the Green Industry as a whole, TNLA endorses certain suppliers as being of especially high quality and value.The intent of this program is to help take some of the guesswork out of complex business services purchase decisions for our members. Endorsed Service Companies work closely with TNLA to let the Green Industry know about their services.

TNLA carefully evaluates Endorsed Service Applicants to make sure they are worthy of the Endorsed Service title. Emphasis is placed on the companies’ reputation for quality and value, dedication to the Green Industry, and enthusiasm for working closely with the Association. Endorsed Service applicants are asked to prepare an in-depth proposal that addresses a number of key factors.

These proposals are carefully evaluated and then discussed by a task force composed of some of TNLA’s most insightful business owners and managers. If the task force sees fit, they recommend the endorsement to TNLA’s board of directors for approval. If you are interested in becoming endorsed, or if you have comments regarding the endorsed service task force, contact info@tnlaonline.org.

TNLA is proud to have Hotchkiss Insurance, Texas Green Industry Group (Workers Comp), and Integrity Merchant Solutions as your trusted endorsed services providers. Click on a link on the right of the page for contact details and more information.

TNLA Endorsed Service provider Hotchkiss Insurance Agency, LLC talks with Amy Graham about their services

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is something that will have a large impact on the Green Industry and many business owners and their employees have questions about how it will affect them. While the Afforadable Care Act is still evolving, there is quite a bit that we do know now and TNLA is glad to partner with Hotchkiss Insurance, a TNLA Endorsed Service Provider, to provide updates and news regarding how the law will affect them. Hotchkiss can also help educate TNLA members and answer any questions they may have. Two of their primary resources are in the Dallas and Houston areas. Carmen Deatherage (Houston area/713-292-5764) and Wanda Starks (Dallas area/972-512-7791) are both National Association of Health Underwriters certified experts in the field of Health Care Reform.  They have prepared the following video to hit on some of the highlights of the reform legislation. After viewing, please be sure to visit tnlaonline.org often to check for status updates!

Did you receive your print copy in the mail?

Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is printed and mailed to every member and certified professional and and emailed bi-monthly to 10,000+ subscribers.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers, regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

Each edition is published both in print and digitally for fully interactive access, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

The time is upon us to recognize our Texas Green Industry Greats; nominations are due May 15th. Spend fifteen minutes to nominate a winner who will be recognized all year long. There are two ways to participate:

1. Nominate an individual for the Young Leader Award and

2. Nominate a business for the Summit Award. 

-click to download nomination forms-

The TNLA Summit Award recognizes a member firm that has made significant, exceptional contributions to the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association and its member firms. The Summit Award is the highest honor bestowed by TNLA on a member firm. The firm successful in achieving the Summit Award exemplifies the Association’s ideals: innovation, service, and highly ethical behavior in the way it conducts its affairs.

The TNLA Young Leader Award, established by the Board of Directors in 1996, is presented annually to a deserving young leader age 41 and under who has displayed outstanding achievement and service to the Green Industry in Texas. TNLA and other community service by the nominee will be given special consideration by the selection committee.

1996 Young Leader Mark Baxmann presents 2012 Young Leader Award to Jason Craven, CEO of Southern Botanical  

Inaugural 2012 Summit Award Winner presented to Southwest Wholesale Nursery

**Award Winners will be recognized at the TNLA Awards Dinner at Nursery/Landscape EXPO in Dallas on Friday, August 16th, 2013 at the Omni Dallas Convention Center Trinity Ballroom.

Texas Nursery & Landscape Association is a founding member of the Texas Water Smart Coalition, a consumer education effort designed to conserve Texas' most valuable resource. Check out this video to learn more about who supports it and why you should, too.

Don't miss your opportunity to connect with the top Growers in the state while getting the latest information from the Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas Farm Bureau, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), and the 83rd Texas Legislature. Special guest Evan Smith of the Texas Tribune will be in attendance and talk to us about the amazing success of his media organization as it leads the charge toward nonprofit journalism in an all-digital platform. Not a Grower? You are still welcome and will leave with plenty of high impact take-aways to help you do business better in Texas.

Registration

is now open!

Cost is FREE for TNLA members and just $25 for non-members. For more information call 800-880-0343.

Schedule of Events

This month is a good one to pore over photographs of winners of Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards. Drs. Marco Palma and Charlie Hall talk about Texas' Green Industry and the Economy, and get an early preview of 2013Texas Superstar Promotions. Plus: Greg Grant of SFA Gardens writes A Plea for Historic Garden Personality, and Dr. Kevin Ong provides information on Impatiens Downy Mildew, and Jim Reaves discusses being Back in the Trenches with the legislative session. Check out our new members, newly certified individuals, and Newsbites, too. Enjoy!

Did you receive your print copy in the mail?

Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is printed and mailed to every member and certified professional and and emailed bi-monthly to 10,000+ subscribers.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers, regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

Each edition is published both in print and digitally for fully interactive access, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

TO:  Transportation Transformation Group Executive Committee

FROM: Billy Moore 

SUBJECT: Fiscal Cliff Legislation Summary

DATE: January 1, 2013

The Senate approved HR 8, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA), 89-8 on January 1.  The House will vote later today.

Major provisions include:
• Tax rates would permanently rise to Clinton-era levels for families with income above $450,000 and individuals above $400,000. All income below the threshold would permanently be taxed at lower Bush-era rates.
• The tax on capital gains and dividends would be permanently set at 20 percent for those with income above the $450,000/$400,000 threshold. It would remain at 15 percent for everyone else.
• The estate tax would be set at 40 percent for those at the $450,000/ $400,000 threshold, with a $5 million exemption. The threshold would be indexed to inflation.
• The sequester would be delayed for two months. Half of the delay would be offset by discretionary cuts, split between defense and non-defense. The other half would be offset by revenue raised by the voluntary transfer of traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs, which would tax retirement savings when transferred.
• Pay for Members of Congress would be frozen.
• The stimulus tax provision would be extended for five years
     o The Earned Income Tax Credit
     o The Child Tax Credit, and
     o The American Opportunity Tax Credit.
• Other provisions would be extended one or two years:
     o Deduction for certain expenses of elementary and secondary schoolteachers.
     o Exclusion from gross income of discharge of qualified principal residence indebtedness.
     o Parity for exclusion from income for employer-provided mass transit and parking benefits.
     o Mortgage insurance premiums treated as qualified residence interest.
     o Deduction of State and local general sales taxes.
     o Special rule for contributions of capital gain real property made for conservation purposes.
     o Above-the-line deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses.
     o Tax-free distributions from individual retirement plans for charitable purposes.
     o Research credit.
     o Temporary minimum low-income tax credit rate for non-federally subsidized new buildings.
     o Housing allowance exclusion for determining area median gross income for qualified residential rental project exempt facility bonds.
     o Indian employment tax credit.
     o New markets tax credit.
     o Railroad track maintenance credit.
     o Mine rescue team training credit.
     o Employer wage credit for employees who are active duty members of the uniformed services.
     o Work opportunity tax credit.
     o Qualified zone academy bonds.
     o 15-year straight-line cost recovery for qualified leasehold improvements, qualified restaurant buildings and improvements, and qualified retail improvements.
     o 7-year recovery period for motorsports entertainment complexes.
     o Accelerated depreciation for business property on an Indian reservation.
     o Enhanced charitable deduction for contributions of food inventory.
     o Increased expensing limitations and treatment of certain real property as section 179 property.
     o Election to expense mine safety equipment.
     o Special expensing rules for certain film and television productions.
     o Deduction with respect to income attributable to domestic production activities in Puerto Rico.
     o Tax treatment of certain payments to controlling exempt organizations.
     o Certain dividends of regulated investment companies.
     o RIC qualified investment entity treatment under FIRPTA.
     o Subpart F exception for active financing income.
     o Look-thru treatment of payments between related controlled foreign corporations under foreign personal holding company rules.
     o Exclusion of 100 percent of gain on certain small business stock.
     o Basis adjustment to stock of S corporations making charitable contributions of property.
     o Reduction in S-corporation recognition period for built-in gains tax.
     o Empowerment zone tax incentives.
     o Tax-exempt financing for New York Liberty Zone.
     o Increase in limit on cover over of rum excise taxes to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
     o American Samoa economic development credit.
     o Bonus depreciation.
     o Credit for energy-efficient existing homes.
     o Credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property.
     o Credit for 2- or 3-wheeled plug-in electric vehicles.
     o Cellulosic biofuel producer credit.
     o Incentives for biodiesel and renewable diesel.
     o Production credit for Indian coal facilities placed in service before 2009.
     o Credits with respect to facilities producing energy from certain renewable resources.
     o Credit for energy-efficient new homes.
     o Credit for energy-efficient appliances.
     o Special allowance for cellulosic biofuel plant property.
     o Special rule for sales or dispositions to implement FERC or State electric restructuring policy for qualified electric utilities.
     o Alternative fuels excise tax credits.
• The Alternative Minimum Tax would be permanently patched to avoid raising taxes on the middle-class.
• The payroll tax holiday would be allowed to expire.
• Limits on tax exemptions and deductions for higher-income Americans would be re-imposed: Personal Exemption Phase-out would be set at $250,000 and the itemized deduction limitation kicks in at $300,000.
• Scheduled cuts to doctors under Medicare would be avoided for a year through Medicare spending cuts.
• Federal unemployment insurance would be extended for another year.
• Agriculture policies would be extended nine months.

William K Moore 
Vianovo
633 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Fourth Floor 
Washington, DC 20004
(202) 783-0199

We hope that the design exemplifies the industry today.  Installation of the landscape will be coordinated after the design has been chosen.  All efforts will be made to have the landscape installed by TCLP, licensed irrigators, ICPI, NCMA certified individuals and firms.

Click here to download the Request for Design Proposal that offers more details about the project. Please click here to view photos of the current landscape of the building, and here to view a site survey of the property.

This year, join your industry peers for the TNLA Business Management Workshop in San Antonio.

December's magazine is TNLA's People Issue. It spotlights Jason Craven, CEO of Southern Botanical and Jim Estill, Founder and President of Calloway's Nursery-- both share wisdom gained from their experiences in the landscaping and retail sectors of our Texas Green Industry. Reforestation in Bastrop is underway, and a conversation with Jim Rooni, Chief Regional Forester of Texas A&M Forest Service and April Rose, Executive Director of Tree Folks, serves as the basis for the Certification Quarterly Quiz-- return the form for your CEUs. Dawn Stover of SFA Gardens writes about Sexy Plant, and Jessica Goehring, CIC, ACSR of Hotchkiss Insurance Agency provides tips to understanding your own leadership. Don't forget to check out the new members and newly certified individuals and check out the Newsbites for election results. Enjoy! 

 Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is printed and emailed bi-monthly.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers, regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

Each edition is published both in print and digitally for fully interactive access, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

 Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is published monthly with the exception of August.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers, regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers every month—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

TNLA GREEN is published monthly, delivered by email, and posted on www.tnlaonline.org for  continuous access.

Each edition is published digitally and fully interactive, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

Special Print Editions in July and February.  In July, make your mark in the magazine dedicated to EXPO exhibitors and attendees. In February, connect your brand to winners of the Texas Excellence In Landscaping awards in this special photo issue.

 The 2012 Census of Agriculture forms will be mailed to over 3 million U.S. agricultural producers during the last week of December.  In Texas, about 375,000 Census forms are being mailed out.  The mailings include all known farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers, plus a large number of potential agricultural producers.

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) Texas Field Office has provided responses to some of the most commonly asked questions about the Census of Agriculture.

What is the Census of Agriculture?  The first Census of Agriculture was conducted in 1840, and is now conducted every five years.  The Census is a complete count of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. The Census looks at land use and tenure, operator characteristics, production practices and economic information.  The Census serves as a very important “voice” for America’s farmers and ranchers.

Why is the Census of Agriculture important?  The Census provides the only source of uniform, comprehensive and impartial agricultural data for every county in the nation. Through the Census, producers will show the value and importance of agriculture in their county and can help influence decisions that will shape the future of American agriculture.  By responding to the Census, producers are helping themselves and their communities.

Who uses the Census of Agriculture data?  Census data are used by all who serve farmers and rural communities: university research and extension, state and local officials, agribusinesses, farm organizations, commodity groups, and many others.
• Companies and cooperatives use the facts and figures to determine future locations of facilities that will serve agricultural producers.
• Community planners use the information to target needed services to rural residents.
• Legislators use Census statistics when shaping farm policies and programs.
• Producers use the information in making plans for their future operations.

Other uses of Census information: 

• Used to allocate block grant dollars to states

• Used to allocate funds for beginning farmer, conservation and other programs

• Used to help identify research priorities and to allocate funds accordingly

• Used in rural economic development like broadband Internet expansion

I’m retired or I’ve never farmed, do I need to return the Census form?  Yes. 

Everyone who receives a Census form is required to return the Census form, even if they no longer farm or have never been involved in agriculture.  A simple note of explanation on the front page will suffice.  Please note: retired operators who own land enrolled in CRP or WRP are counted as farms and should complete the Census form.

I only have a small operation, do I count?  Yes.

It only takes $1,000 worth of agricultural production to be counted as a farm.  A few cows, several goats, laying hens for local egg sales, some hay production – it doesn’t take much to be a farm.  Everyone should complete and return their Census form.

Other key points:

• The Census of Agriculture has mandatory reporting authority, just like the population Census.  This is due to the tremendous value of the information and because of the large amount of funds and resources targeted and allocated based on Census results.

• Individual information is guaranteed complete confidentiality by federal law, Title 7 of the U.S. code.  Title 7 prevents NASS from sharing individual information with any other government agency and also gives NASS immunity from any type of mandatory disclosure of individual data, including legal processes and FOIA.

• NASS is restricted to publishing only aggregate totals at state and county levels such that the identity of any individual is not discernible in the published totals.

• The form is lengthy, but there are many commodity specific sections for which producers will simply check “No”, because they do not raise those items.

• There is a toll free phone number on the front of the Census form for anyone with questions: (888) 424-7828.  NASS will operate calling centers from 7am to 9pm on weekdays and from 8am to 4pm on Saturdays, to respond to incoming calls.

For additional information about the Census of Agriculture, please contact the USDA’s NASS Texas Field Office at (800) 626-3142.

Thank you to those who have contributed to your TNLA PAC.  Without your support, TNLA would not be able to assist elected officials and candidates who support the nursery/landscape industry. 

TNLA PAC had a really good election night with our endorsed candidates.  The five heavily contested races in the House we participated in were successful as well as the Senate seat on the Coastal Bend.  All of our Primary Election endorsees also won their General Election.  The negative news is three of the five Judges we endorsed on the 4th Court of Appeals were defeated.  This could prove difficult for property owner’s water rights in the state.

Both Democrat and Republican candidates prevailed and they have been very supportive of our issues in the past.  When we start the 83rd Session on January 8, 2013 there will be many new faces.  In the Texas House we will see almost 50% sophomores and freshmen.  In the Senate, five new members of 31 will be in place.  This is a huge turn over and loss of institutional knowledge.  This is unprecedented, but many elected officials retired or were defeated in the Primary Election.

TNLA PAC supported some of these newly elected officials and we look forward to working with them next legislative session.

The current House has 102 Republicans and 48 Democrats. Based on unofficial results reported by the Texas secretary of state's office, in 2013 the makeup will be 95 Republicans and 55 Democrats. The Senate’s amount of Republicans and Democrats will remain the same.  TNLA will still have key elected official friends in positions to support us.

With all probability, Joe Strauss will maintain his position as Speaker of the House.  This is good for the nursery/landscape industry because his leadership and his top lieutenants have been very supportive of our issues.   

TNLA PAC endorsed these wining candidates in heavily contested races:

Senator Chuy Hinojosa                                 (D) McAllen
Representative J.M. Lozano                        (R) Harlingen
Representative Craig Eiland                        (D) Galveston
Representative Jason Isaac                       (R) Dripping Springs
Representative Jimmie Don Aycock         (R) Killeen
Representative Linda Harper-Brown         (R) Irving

Please consider making another contribution to your TNLA PAC to continue supporting candidates like these.

Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is published monthly with the exception of August.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers, regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers every month—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

TNLA GREEN is published monthly, delivered by email, and posted on www.tnlaonline.org for  continuous access.

Each edition is published digitally and fully interactive, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

Special Print Editions in July and February.  In July, make your mark in the magazine dedicated to EXPO exhibitors and attendees. In February, connect your brand to winners of the Texas Excellence In Landscaping awards in this special photo issue.

Advertise in TNLA GREEN Magazine

Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards 2012-2013 Award Winners Announced!

Each year, TNLA recognizes excellence in design and environmental improvement through its Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards. Nominations are considered in November; winners are announced in December. Award recipients are featured in a special issue of TNLA GREEN magazine which is printed and mailed to all TNLA members and distributed electronically to over 10,000 subscribers. Recipients are honored at the TNLA Awards Dinner in August at Nursery/Landscape EXPO, the premiere horticulture tradeshow in the U.S.A.

GOLD AWARD

Southern Botanical, Inc.- Bluffview Residence [Residential Maintenance]

GOLD AWARD

Southern Botanical, Inc.- Corporate Campus Courtyard [Commercial Installation]

GOLD AWARD

Lambert Landscape Company- Regency Garden [Residential Installation]

Talking Points for  May 2013 Region Meetings:

1. EXPO is in Dallas this year, Aug. 15-1,7 and is now a Thursday, Friday, Saturday Show. Register and book hotel rooms by July 26 for Early Bird Rates

2. Don’t Forget the Omni is EXPO’s host hotel and is also connected to the Convention Center. Rooms are going fast.

3. To help your pocket book, EXPO Education is offering a one-day rate or you can come to all three.

4. New this year, EXPO Keynotes will be available to everybody - they are free with Tradeshow admission. For more information, be sure to visit NurseryLandscapeEXPO.org

5. The 2013-14 TNLA membership year has officially begun! Renew today if you haven’t already.

6. Update or completely redo your company website for less with TNLA's newest member benefit partner, Austin Web & Design. Contact Isaac Simon to get your 5% discount.

7. We are within the last month of the 83rd Legislative Session. TNLA is having great success thus far and continues to engage and monitor 70 pieces of legislation.  Look for the weekly Legislative Update each Friday.

8. If your TNLA certification expires 6/30/2013, it's time to renew.  Renewal statements were mailed.  If you have any questions call the Certification Dept at the TNLA office.

9. Spring is the best time to stock up with the Best of Texas Landscape Guide. Call or visit tnlaonline.org to place your order today.

 Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is published monthly with the exception of August.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers, regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers every month—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

TNLA GREEN is published monthly, delivered by email, and posted on www.tnlaonline.org for  continuous access.

Each edition is published digitally and fully interactive, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

Special Print Editions in July and February.  In July, make your mark in the magazine dedicated to EXPO exhibitors and attendees. In February, connect your brand to winners of the Texas Excellence In Landscaping awards in this special photo issue.

October 23, 2012
Results of the Economic Impact/Scope Report- View Recorded Webinar

November 15, 2012
Economic Outlook for 2013- View Recorded Webinar
 

January 2012
Value of Local/Sustainable Labels - View Recorded Webinar

March 1, 2013
83rd Legislative Session Update - View Recorded Webinar

Follow Us @ Landscape Texas!
 Official EXPO 2013 Hashtag - TNLAEXPO2013

 Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is published monthly with the exception of August.

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond
subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers,
regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers every month—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

TNLA GREEN is published monthly, delivered by email, and posted on www.tnlaonline.org for  continuous access.

Each edition is published digitally and fully interactive, allowing  ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

Special Print Editions in July and February.  In July, make your mark in the magazine dedicated to EXPO exhibitors and attendees. In February, connect your brand to winners of the Texas Excellence In Landscaping awards in this special photo issue.

The best and most ethical individuals and companies were recognized for their contribution to the industry, and the Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards were presented as model projects in design, installation, and maintenance. Beautiful and inspiring landscape projects from around the State of Texas were shown and each company gave an overview of the project's highlights and struggles. TNLA also welcomed five new Honrary Lifetime Members who have made career-long contributions to the cultivation of high standards in education, certification, and extraordinary leadership practices.

While everyone took home new contacts, great memories and a satisfied appetite, only a select few companies garnered the top prizes within their respective project categories. Even more impressive were the credentials of the "Big Four" award recipients who shined only slightly brighter than their impressive credentials and accolades while taking home the highly coveted Arp, Young Leader, Summit and Grand Platinum Awards. Congratulations to all who participated.

Many thanks to our sponsors for making this event possible: Texas Green Industry Workers' Compensation Group, State Fair of Texas, Wilhite Landscape & Lawn Care, Roundtree Landscaping, Inc., Southwest Wholesale Nursery, and Greater Texas Landscapes.

Jim Estill, Calloway's Nursery Arp Award Recipient

Jason Craven, Southern Botanical, Young Leader Award

Southwest Wholesale Nursery,  Summit Award

Lambert Landscape Company, Texas Excellence in Landscaping Grand Platinum Award for Maintenance at Garden on the Creek

Honorary Lifetime Members:

Anne Muscat

Dr. Dough Welsh

Dr. Bill Welch

Charles Britton

Bill Brown

Inteviews with Steve Taber, Todd Kinney, Doug Smellage, and Josh Bracken-- Learn what drives great leadership.

05/08/13  Driver, Houston, TX

05/07/13 Production Manager, Austin, TX

05/07/13 Organic Sales Rep, Austin, TX

5/3/13 Operations/Yard Manager Houston, TX

5/3/13 General Manager, Austin, TX

4/30/13 Greenhouse Specialist, New Summerfield, TX (job description) (click here to submit resume)

04/30/13 Inside Counter Sales, San Antonio, TX

04/26/13 Landscape Foreman & Qualified Irrigators, San Antonio & Killeen,  TX

View Complete Listings

- Samantha Crowder, Texas Tech University

Download the Media Planning Guide for publications, rates, deadlines, and artwork specifications.

Download an Advertising Contract

We are excited to introduce you to Green Matters, the newest electronic publication from the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Staying abreast of both management and horticultural information is critical to the success of your business, but we know it's time consuming to sift through thousands of news stories to find relevant information.  That's why we've developed Green Matters, a compilation of relevant news content harvested from over 14, 500 news sources, tailored specifically to the Texas Green Industry.

TNLA is partnering with Texas-based MultiBrief, a leader in digital publishing, to distribute Green Matters.  As a result of our new relationship with MultiBrief, we are opening up the opportunity for businesses to feature their products and services at an extremely reasonable cost given the amount of exposure it provides. It's a win-win for everyone.

Look for your electronic copy of Green Matters every Tuesday.

We are confident this new publication provided by TNLA will help enhance members' business success.

Subscribe to Green Matters

View Archives

GET AHEAD of your competition and make your brand thrive by advertising in the Nursery/Landscape EXPO Program. Attendees will be sure to carry their Program with them all three days of EXPO and keep it as a reference after the close – a great way to make a lasting impression!

EXPO draws more than 6,500 attendees and exhibitors annually. Over 80% of the attendees registered are mid to upper level managers playing a major role in company purchases. Attendees represent a variety of companies with qualified buyers from large to small including retail garden centers, grounds maintenance and landscape contractors, irrigation professionals, growers, suppliers, manufacturers, dealers and more.

The success and longevity of EXPO is partly due to the fact that Texas is the third largest horticulture producing state in the nation, generating $16.1 billion. EXPO attendees  are serious buyers motivated by the opportunity to search out new products and compare values. They have been doing this at EXPO’s  “One-Stop Market” for over 58 years.

Over 80%  of EXPO attendees visit no other show.

Advertise in EXPO Program

No other industry publication in Texas provides growers, retailers, and landscapers with more information as comprehensive as the TNLA Buyers’ Guide. Advertisers become directly connected to Texas Nursery & Landscape Association‘s actively-engaged members, Texas Certified Professionals, and key decision makers.

Year after year, TNLA members rely on the spiral bound TNLA Buyers’ Guide to reference important information and find the industry’s most trusted and professional suppliers.

Features:
• Spiral Bound
• Laminated Tab Section Dividers
• More than 4,800 Listings
• Over 560 Product Categories
• Texas Growers’ Maps
• Greenline Product Listings
• Hardline Product Listings
• Business Services Listings
• Government Agencies
• Cross Reference Indices

TNLA Buyers’ Guide is utilized by everyone the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association touches. That means thousands of TNLA members’ companies and their employees; past and current Nursery/ Landscape EXPO attendees; and all Texas Certified Professionals (TCNP, TCLP  & TMCNP).

Our readers are serious buyers, motivated by the opportunity to discover new products and services to enhance their business. Your message is targeted to the decision-makers you want to reach.

TNLA Buyers’ Guides are printed and mailed to all TNLA member companies andTexas Certified Professionals. The TNLA Buyers’ Guide is a “must have”  reference intended to be kept throughout the year, resulting in higher than average readership.  There is bonus distribution at industry leading trade shows and conferences throughout the year.

Advertise in Member Directory & Buyer's Guide

Request a Member Directory & Buyer's Guide

Click on the Cover and... See What You'll Discover!

Plot Your Course for All Things EXPO; plan your education conference, see what's at the Demonstration Stage, get ready for the TNLA Awards Dinner and more with this special issue. PLUS bonus features on the Epidemic of Disengagement (Clint Swindall), Market to People Not Like You (Kely McDonald), Moving from Surviving to Thriving (Bruce Wilkinson) and Heat Exposure (Michelle Frank, CRIS, CIC).

Inside each issue of TNLA Green is valuable information on horticulture trends, ideas for new business & growth, marketing, education & certification, legislative & regulatory updates, member news, industry events, and more. TNLA GREEN is published monthly with the exception of August. 

Green Industry company owners, managers, buyers, sales staff, government agency leaders, elected officials, horticulture students and educators in Texas and beyond
subscribe to TNLA GREEN, the official publication of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Access TNLA member companies and their employees, attendees from the Nursery/Landscape EXPO, Texas Certified Professionals (TMCNP, TCNP, TCLP), lawmakers,
regulators, and researchers.

TNLA GREEN is distributed to over 10,000 subscribers every month—and, it’s posted on TNLA’s website for perpetual, 24/7 access.

TNLA GREEN is published monthly, delivered by email, and posted on www.tnlaonline.org for continuous access.

Each edition is published digitally and is fully interactive, allowing ads to be clicked on and redirected to the advertiser’s website. Search to find content in the magazine, print it, download it, and share with colleagues.

Special Print Editions in July and February.  In July, make your mark in the magazine dedicated to EXPO exhibitors and attendees. In February, connect your brand to winners of the Texas Excellence In Landscaping awards in this special photo issue.

View TNLA GREEN

Advertise in TNLA GREEN

Submit an article or story idea to TNLA GREEN

Your TNLA Legislative & Regulatory Team is on the ground protecting the interests of the nursery/landscape industry on a daily basis.  Not only are we completely intertwined with the Legislative Session every odd year, but we monitor and interact with state agencies who implement the policies the Texas Legislature creates.  Our actions are not limited to the state level.  We coordinate our efforts with the American Nursery and Landscape Association (ANLA), the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) and the Irrigation Association (IA), amongst others, to address legislative/regulatory policies that affect us at the federal level.

Legislative & Regulatory Affairs

512.579.3851

Advocacy - protecting the interests of the nursery/ landscape industry

Knowledge - the power to work smarter and increase your bottom line

Connections - the people who can help both you and your business grow

Professionalism - the difference that makes the sale

Savings - member discounts for everyone in the TNLA family

Advocacy - protecting the interests of the nursery/landscape industry

TNLA is the only organization representing the nursery/landscape industry at the Texas State Capitol year-round along with monitoring and interacting with State agencies. TNLA is actively involved in lobbying and representing the interests of the Green Industry.  Click here to learn more.

•Legislative and Regulatory Updates - Broadcast faxes, emails, and the TNLA website keep you up-to-date on legislative and regulatory activities.

Professionalism - the difference that makes the sale

TNLA members work together to build a
cumulative image of professionalism by:

•Being listed in the online product &
services finder for landscape and retail
firms on the consumer website
www.landscapetexas.org

• Displaying TNLA Member plaques
and decals

• Using the TNLA logo on all printed
business materials and your website

• Adhering to the TNLA Code of Ethics

• Displaying awards received in the
Texas Excellence in Landscaping (TEIL)
competition

• Certifying your employees through
TNLA certification programs

• Displaying Texas Certified Professional
certificates where customers can
regularly see them

Connections -  the people who can help both you and your business grow

TNLA members are part of a community, a support group of over 1200 nursery/landscape businesses.

Connect regionally by:

•Attending region meetings

•Serving on a regional committee or task force

•Enjoying social events

•Keeping up with what’s happening through regional newsletters and visiting your region web page

Connect to the state organization by:

•Meeting and greeting at the Annual TNLA Awards Ceremony

•Listing your job openings on TNLA’s online Job Link at www.tnlaonline.org/services

•Keeping up with the TNLA social network by visiting TNLA ’s LinkedIn page, becoming a fan on Facebook, or following TNLA on Twitter

•Seeing what’s new at the Nursery/Landscape Expo

•Keeping up by reading TNLA Green magazine

•Finding business to business vendors using the company/product search

Knowledge - the power to work smarter and increase your bottom line       

Education Opportunities

•Management Workshop - a 1 1/2 day workshop held annually in January. In-depth focus on management issues.

•Expo Education Conference - Held annually in August, full-day seminars on industry-specific topics.

•TNLA Green Magazine - Monthly online magazine sent to business owners and industry professionals covering Association news and Green Industry business growth topics.

•Region Meeting Speakers - Most regions have monthly meetings offering education and tours of facilities.

•Broadcast Emails - Information direct to your inbox about whatever is hot. Available to principal members and all employees. Keep your information current at http://eseries.tnlaonline.org.

•Region Newsletters - Most regions distribute a monthly newsletter to keep you up-to-date on regional issues.

•Industry Website
www.tnlaonline.org - Comprehensive up-to-date information about industry issues and events. Business to business product and services finder.

•TNLA Certifications - TNLA offers three certifications: Texas Certified Nursery Professional (TCNP), Texas Certified Landscape Professional (TCLP), and Texas Master Certified Nursery Professional (TMCNP). All exams are now available online. New for 2009, online TMCNP training and testing available.

•Especially for Employees - All employees of member firms are entitled to attend educational events at a special reduced member price.

•Tailgate Topics - Trainings for the landscape contractor employee, an at-your-fingertips training program kit with everything you need for quick and easy on-site training.

•Online Nursery Professional Training - This 45-minute web-based training covers sales and service techniques for all nursery professionals. It also aides in the preparation of the Merchandising section of the TCNP exam.

•Basic Botany Online Training - Phase two of our Online Retail Training, covers basic parts and functions of a plant, plant growth, nutrition, origin of plant nomenclature, plant Latin names and definitions, and basic botanical name construction. It also aides in the preparation of the Culture section of the TCNP exam. Visit www.tnlaonline.org/services.

•LandscapePro I and II Online Trainings - This course provides basic landscape instruction, including: safety and first aid, landscape design and plan reading, landscape installation and maintenance, landscape maintenance equipment, and landscape pruning. It also aides in the preparation of the TCLP exam. Visit www.tnlaonline.org/services to find the training that is right for you and your employees.

•Best of Texas Landscape Guide - A comprehensive guide for Texas landscapes listing over 350 plant species shown in full-color. The Guide contains information about growing areas in Texas reflecting not only temperature, but soil type and rainfall. It’s especially prepared by the Texas Certified Nursery Professional Committee of TNLA, working with horticultural experts and designers at Horticultural Printers. Proceeds from the Guide support TNLA Certification programs and promotes professionalism in the industry.

•Certification Training Manuals - Texas Certified Landscape Professional Study Manual and Texas Certified Nursery Professional Study Manual serve as the textbooks for the TCLP and TCNP Certification exams. These manuals were developed by Texas AgriLife Extension under the direction of TNLA’s Certification Committee.

•Economic Impact and Economic Scope Reports - For over 20 years, TNLA has produced these reports, which analyze the economic scope and impact of the nursery/floral industry in Texas.

Savings - member discounts for everyone in the TNLA family

TNLA members not only enjoy substantial discounts on TNLA products and services, they also gain access to a wide array of money-saving opportunities via its unique relationships with Member Benefit Partners and Endorsed Service Providers (ESPs). To experience the power of membership, visit our Member Discounts page.       

Not a member?

Join Today!

Why do you and your employees need to attend?  August is the perfect time to get your education, CEUs, and networking in-- you aren't too busy to get away, and who knows, this could be the perfect combination of education and a vacation!

CEUs avaialable from: TDA, TCEQ, ISA, TEA, TNLA, IA
NEW this year-- classes applicable for Landscape Architect CEUs!

REGISTER NOW!

Visit the Nursery/Landscape EXPO website for more information!

Download Here!

or 

Bookmark on your SmartPhone

Join Today!

Endorsed Service Providers - When it's time to shop for a business service provider, you can feel confident when choosing a     TNLA Endorsed Service Provider. Endorsed Service Providers are selected by a task force of industry leaders because of their reputation and  value.

 

Hotchkiss Insurance Agency, Inc.

Get a quote on all your insurance! Call 866.959.2525

Texas Green Industry (TGI) Workers' Comp Group

Qualifying members can save 10.5% on Workers' Comp premiums. Ask your insurance agent about TGI or call Hotchkiss Insurance Agency (HIA) for more information, 866.959.2525.

TSYS Merchant Solutions

Offers TNLA members reduced rates on payment processing. Call 888-749-7860 - be sure to say you're a member of TNLA!

Insurance -

Hotchkiss Insurance Agency, Inc. 866-959-2525

Workers Compensation Insurance -

Texas Green Industry (TGI) Workers' Comp Group 866-959-2525

Credit Card Processing -

TSYS Merchant Services 800-354-3988

Legislative & Regulatory Representation - protecting the interests of the nursery/landscape industry

TNLA is the only organization representing the nursery/landscape industry at the Texas State Capitol year-round along with monitoring and interacting with State agencies. TNLA is actively involved in lobbying and representing the interests of the Green Industry.

Professionalism - the difference that makes the sale

TNLA members work together to build a cumulative image of professionalism by:

• Being listed in the online product &
  services finder for landscape and retail
  firms on the consumer website
  www.landscapetexas.org
  
  • Displaying TNLA Member plaques
  and decals
  
  • Using the TNLA logo on all printed
  business materials and your website
  
  • Adhering to the TNLA Code of Ethics
  
  • Displaying awards received in the
  Texas Excellence in Landscaping (TEIL)
  competition
  
  • Certifying your employees through
  TNLA certification programs
  
  • Displaying Texas Certified Professional
  certificates where customers can
  regularly see them

Connections - the people who can help

TNLA members are part of a community, a support group of over 1200 nursery/landscape businesses.
 

Connect regionally by:

• Attending region meetings
   
• Serving on a regional committee or task force
   
• Enjoying social events
   
• Keeping up with what’s happening through regional newsletters and visiting your region web page
   

Connect to the state organization by:

• Meeting and greeting at the Annual TNLA Awards Ceremony

• Listing your job openings on TNLA’s online Job Link at www.tnlaonline.org/services

• Keeping up with the TNLA social network by visiting TNLA ’s LinkedIn page, becoming a fan on Facebook, or following TNLA on Twitter
   
• Seeing what’s new at the Nursery/Landscape Expo
   
• Keeping up by reading TNLA Green magazine
   
• Finding business to business vendors at tnlaonline.org

Knowledge - the power to work smarter

Education Opportunities

• Management Workshop - a 1 1/2 day workshop held annually in January. In-depth focus on management issues.
   
• Expo Education Conference - Held annually in August, full-day seminars on industry-specific topics.

• TNLA Green Magazine - Monthly online magazine sent to business owners and industry professionals covering Association news and Green Industry business growth topics.
   
• Region Meeting Speakers - Most regions have monthly meetings offering education and tours of facilities.
   
• Legislative and Regulatory Updates - Broadcast faxes, emails, and the TNLA website keep you up-to-date on legislative and regulatory activities.
   
• Broadcast Emails - Information direct to your inbox about whatever is hot. Available to principal members and all employees. Keep your information current at http://eseries.tnlaonline.org.
  See page ___ for instructions on updating your profile online.
   
• Region Newsletters - Most regions distribute a monthly newsletter to keep you up-to-date on regional issues.
   
• Industry Website
  www.tnlaonline.org - Comprehensive up-to-date information about industry issues and events. Business to business product and services finder.

• Consumer Website
  www.landscapetexas.org
  Consumer website with tips on how to select a TNLA Certified Professional, as well as a vendor finder and a product & services finder for landscape and retail companies. Members can advertise at a discount.

• TNLA Certifications - TNLA offers three certifications: Texas Certified Nursery Professional (TCNP), Texas Certified Landscape Professional (TCLP), and Texas Master Certified Nursery Professional (TMCNP). All exams are now available online. New for 2009, online TMCNP training and testing available.
   
• Especially for Employees - All employees of member firms are entitled to attend educational events at a special reduced member price. Find out more about our educational opportunities.
   
• Tailgate Topics - For the landscape contractor employee, an at-your-fingertips training program kit with everything you need for quick and easy on-site training.
   
• Online Nursery Professional Training - This 45-minute web-based training covers sales and service techniques for all nursery professionals. It also aides in the preparation of the Merchandising section of the TCNP exam.
   
• Basic Botany Online Training
  Phase two of our Online Retail Training, covers basic parts and functions of a plant, plant growth, nutrition, origin of plant nomenclature, plant Latin names and definitions, and basic botanical name construction. It also aides in the preparation of the Culture section of the TCNP exam. Visit www.tnlaonline.org/services.

• LandscapePro I and II Online Trainings
  This course provides basic landscape instruction, including: safety and first aid, landscape design and plan reading, landscape installation and maintenance, landscape maintenance equipment, and landscape pruning. It also aides in the preparation of the TCLP exam. Visit www.tnlaonline.org/services to find the training that is right for you and your employees.

• Best of Texas Landscape Guide
  A comprehensive guide for Texas landscapes listing over 350 plant species shown in full-color. The Guide contains information about growing areas in Texas reflecting not only temperature, but soil type and rainfall. It’s especially prepared by the Texas Certified Nursery Professional Committee of TNLA, working with horticultural experts and designers at Horticultural Printers. Proceeds from the Guide support TNLA Certification programs and promotes professionalism in the industry.

• Certification Training Manuals
  Texas Certified Landscape Professional Study Manual and Texas Certified Nursery Professional Study Manual serve as the textbooks for the TCLP and TCNP Certification exams. These manuals were developed by Texas AgriLife Extension under the direction of TNLA’s Certification Committee.
   
• Economic Impact and Economic Scope Reports
  For over 20 years, TNLA has produced
  these reports, which analyze the economic
  scope and impact of the nursery/floral
  industry in Texas.

DONATE TO THE CAUSE

Location & Information

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Education

Schedule of Events

Awards Dinner

Live Floor Plan

Product Search

Exhibitor Search

Reserve a Booth Now

Contact Us

Legislative & Regulatory

Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards (TEIL Awards)

Endorsed Services & Member Benefits

Horticultural Careers

Job Link

New to Business Packets

Member Company Service/Product Finder

Reports

Useful Links

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Join TNLA today!

Show your professionalism with a TNLA certification!

Congratulations to The Newest TNLA Certifieds!

Archie Whitt, Jr., TCNP

Lilia Duque, TCLP

Kimberly Terrell, TCLP

Vickie Vincent, TCNP

Lee Alexander, TCNP

Earl Giraulo, TCNP

Rene Cantu, TCNP

David Gambrel, TCNP

Jared Dunlap, TCNP

Steve Barclay, TCNP

Rusty Allen, TCNP

Neil Sperry relies on certified Pros

Click the image to listen to Neil's spot about TNLA certified professionals

   
Already Certified? 

Looking for CEU opportunities?

Promote your certification

Download an Event Attendance Record

Need to reinstate your TNLA certification?

Find a TNLA Certified professional:

Find a TNLA Certified professional  
 

Are you a TCNP ready to excel to the next level?
Texas Master Certified Nursery Professional Online Training Course

The TMCNP course is designed for nursery professionals that have already achieved TCNP status. It enhances the intensive summary of skills and knowledge that you have already achieved as a TCNP and updates that knowledge with the latest information, research, and technology. The course consists of a series of online modules presented by recognized authorities in their respected fields and helps nursery professionals prepare for the TMCNP certification.

Nursery Professional Training Manual

Order the TCNP manual online

Download order form

TNLA's TCNP Manual serves as the textbook for the TCNP exams. The manual was developed by Texas AgriLife Extension under the direction of TNLA's Certification Committee. In addition to being the study manual for the certification exams, the manual is also designed to be a thorough reference and problem-solving tool for a retail nursery business.

Table of contents

Also includes the Best of Texas Landscape Guide, Second Edition

Texas Certified Landscape Professional Training Manual

Order TCLP manual online

Download order form

TNLA's TCLP Manual serves as the textbook for the TCLP exams. The manual was developed by Texas AgriLife Extension under the direction of TNLA's Certification Committee. In addition to being the study manual for the certification exams, the manual is also designed to be a thorough reference and problem solving tool for the landscape contracting industry.

Table of contents

Also includes the Best of Texas Landscape Guide, Second Edition
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TNLA MEMBERS:

Please Login to Access Members Only pages: 

http://eseries.tnlaonline.org 

Instructions: To pay your dues online, register for an event, update company information, add or delete company products/services that will be published in the Membership Directory & Buyers' Guide, and more, please login using your TNLA login and password.  If you need assistance logging in, please contact the TNLA Membership Department at (512) 579-3866.

To find your current dues, please view the table below. 

Member Business Dues Rates Table for 2013

Not a member? Join TNLA Today!

Businesses may join TNLA as Single Outlet, Multiple Outlet – Primary, Multiple Outlet - Outlet, or Out of State Members. In these cases, all employees of the member business are entitled to all appropriate member benefits. Some individuals are eligible to join TNLA as Associate, Educator/ Student, or Government Employee Members. Use the information below to determine your membership type and dues amount.

Single Outlet Business Membership: For businesses in Texas with facilities located in no more than one TNLA region as defined by the TNLA regions map. (See Business Member Rate Table.)

Multiple Outlet Business: Businesses operating facilities located in multiple TNLA regions as defined by the TNLA regions map and having total common ownership must have at least one TNLA Business Membership in each TNLA region where a facility exists. Complete an application for the facility you want to designate as the Primary Business Member (Primary Business Member rates are per Business Membership Rate Table) and then complete additional Outlet Business Membership applications as required ($90.00 each) Multiple Outlet Businesses must also join Outlet Business Members in each TNLA region where they operate a facility other than the region of the Primary Business Member. Outlet Business Member dues are $90 per outlet.

Out of State Membership: For businesses that do not have facilities in Texas. ($325.00)

Government Employee Membership: For individual employee of any government entity that does not sell horticultural products or services. Employees of government entities that sell horticultural product or services can only join as business members. ($25.00)

Educator/Student Membership: For individual educator or student. ($10.00)

Associate Membership: For individual who is employed by a business member, or for an individual employed by a business which does not qualify for any other type of membership. ($90.00)

Voting
Each In-State Business Member is allowed one vote in each region that they have a Single Outlet Business Membership, Primary Business Membership, or Outlet Business Membership. Out of State Memberships, Government Employee Memberships, Educator/Student Memberships, and Associate Memberships are non-voting membership types.

BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP RATE TABLE - 2013

Membership Period is March 1st through the end of February

Gross Annual Sales in Texas

(Includes all sales at all locations in Texas) 

Pro-Rated In-State Business Membership Dues Adjustment

The TNLA fiscal year runs from March 1 to the last day of February. If you are joining after the third Thursday of August you may pay according to the following percentages of full dues. Please round up to the nearest dollar. Do not pro-rate Outlet, Out of State Government, Educator/Student, or Associate Membership dues.

A career in Horticulture provides you with the opportunity to work with natural products that protect and improve the environment. Research shows that, among many benefits, plants help purify our air and water, they guard against erosion, and provide shelter, warmth, cooling effects, windbreaks, food, and beauty.

Current research even tells us that beautiful natural views enhance our well-being. Professionals in the nursery/landscape industry bring these benefits to the public in a variety of ways. For potential horticultural careers, a wide variety of interests and educational/employment experience is valuable to the industry. Just to name a few: agricultural sciences, business administration, biology, agronomy, forestry, horticulture, soil management, mechanics, marketing, advertising, communications, sales, retailing, landscape design, educational research, packaging, and transportation.

To learn more about possible Horticulture Careers click here.

Many nursery and landscape managers at all levels learn their skills on the job, advancing as their knowledge and skills grow. Others bring to the job skills they developed while preparing for a different career. And others become skilled through formal educational programs combined with industry employment experience. A good basic knowledge of the growing sciences is an advantage for anyone seeking career success in this industry. Through their horticulture curricula, high schools and vocational centers offer nursery and landscape courses in skill development, an important component at school and in the workplace. Arboreta and public gardens also provide educational programs; at these institutions students earn a certificate instead of a diploma when they complete a program.

A number of junior and community colleges, as well as other schools, offer 2-year associate degree programs. These technical courses apply directly to careers, and they often include field training as well as hands-on experience. Such programs tend to cost less and the school schedules tend to be more flexible; two valuable advantages for students with full or part-time jobs.

Bachelor's degree programs at 4-year universities and colleges offer more opportunities for career and general educational development. Specialties in such areas as nursery management and landscape management, design, or architecture build on a strong foundation in the growing sciences. Other agricultural and plant sciences, as well as business courses, provide more career preparation.

Work or on-the-job experience is also very important. Industry and university partnerships offer part-time summer, co-op and internship opportunities form which students receive invaluable experience, s well as pleasure and income.

To learn more about this field and profession, talk to your local retail nursery/garden center, wholesale nursery, landscape firm, the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association, or extension agent.

Celebrate Excellence in the Industry!

Friday, August 16th at 7:00 pm

The Grand Platinum Award for Texas Excellence in Landscaping will be revealed...

The Arp Award and Young Leader winners will be announced...

Texas Excellence in Landscaping (TEIL) winners will be honored...

And, the company honored with the newest TNLA accolade, the Summit Award, will be celebrated.

You don't want to miss this epic evening. 

Click here to sponsor this great event.

Click here to register

Let TNLA's Leadership know what you are thinking, what you need from us, and how we are doing!

Join TNLA TODAY to gain knowledge about the industry, be identified as a true professional whether it is through membership or TNLA's industry-recognized certification programs, network with colleagues across the state and gain life-long friends.

Staff Directory
Need something specific?
Click here for a list of who to call.
7730 S. IH 35 Austin, TX 78745
512.280.5182
800.880.0343
512.280.3012 (fax)
 

1. Compliance Agreement. For nursery to complete and submit to TDA for approval.

2. Information Sheet. To be completed by retail customer, with assistance from nursery.

First the customer clarifies with the nursery that the customer plans to plant the trees permanently at some address (the customer's home or business) inside the Citrus greening quarantined area.

The customer then selects the desired regulated trees andobtains aninformation sheet from nursery.

The customer completes Section G, gets help from thenursery in completing Section H, then signs and dates the information sheet.

The customer, completes the purchase, goes home (or to business) and plants the trees.

The nursery retains the completed information sheet.

Within 7-days following the sale, the nursery duplicates and submits a copy of the information sheet to TDA. The nursery retains their copy of each information sheet for 2-years following theassociated sale.

Since the inception of your TNLA-PAC, it has contributed well over $200,000 to elected officials and candidates who support and understand the nursery/landscape industry.  In the 2010 Primary and General Elections, your TNLA-PAC Trustees will appropriate around $75,000.   TNLA staff will volunteer on campaigns for our friends, thus making our contribution and endorsement mean even more.

the EXPO Education Conference on Thursday, August 16th and continuing through the rest of the tradeshow with the Friday & Saturday Pre-Show Education and Presentations at the Demonstration Stage Friday through Sunday. 

Don't miss the Round Table Discussions and Networking on Thursday.

4 Keynote Presentations- Visit the Keynote Section to Find Out More About the Keynote Presentations and Our Exhibitor Friendly Times/Locations!

Valuable Face-to-Face Connections.

Classes in Business Management, Practical Drought Management, Plant Materials, Trees & Turf, and Pest Management.

Lunch with Industry Peers

On Jan. 26, TNLA coordinated over 70 members and the Green Industry coalition to join together to address the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) about the effects of early implementation of Stage 4 water restrictions. Over 70 TNLA members filled the facility-it was literally standing room only- to share our concerns for our industry, the economy, consumers, and the environment. Retailers, Growers, Landscape Professionals and Suppliers talked about the threats of early implementation and offered ideas to address water supply and demand.

Media coverage from the meeting:
NBC-DFW  DFW-CBS
Plano Star Courier  Dallas Morning News

On December 26, 2011, the Dallas Morning News ran an article, "Even Tougher Water Restrictions Could Come with New Year." The article detailed the North Texas Municipal Water Board's (NTMWB) efforts to implement Stage 4 water restrictions in advance of their drought emergency plan's original implementation schedule. These actions appeared to have been prompted by the possibly of Lake Texoma's water supply contaminating the Trinity Water Basin. Lake Texoma supplies about 30% of the region's water.

The NTMWB plan was to vote on the more restrictive Stage 4 water restrictions at its January 26, 2012 meeting and implement the restrictions on April 1, 2012. After increased public concern and industry attention, this meeting is now a chance for industry and the public to give testimony to the board on our economic impact and our positive affect on the environment. TNLA will continue to keep you informed. Feel free to contact Jim Reaves at 512.579.3851 or jim@tnlaonline.org with comments and questions.

The nursery/landscape industry brought Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples into the mix last week. He called a meeting yesterday between NTMWD and our nursery/landscape coalition to discuss the issue. NTMWD is recommending that Stage IV water restrictions not go into effect prior to June 1, 2012. We as an industry have the opportunity to push that date back later into the summer with proper education of our industry's clients.

Commissioner Staples and his team continue to fully support our industry. He is currently working with other state and federal agencies to overcome some of the obstructions that are hindering water flow into the NTMWD's water sources. NTMWD and the nursery/landscape coalition are developing a good working relationship moving forward. We would like to thank each of you for your efforts. This must be a true team effort.

TDA established a 5 mile quarantine zone around the infected orchard. TNLA notified its members and all are complying with the quarantine. Commissioner Staples appointed Jim Reaves to the Science Panel to advise weekly decisions on the quarantine.  Each Friday, the group meets by phone to make recommendations.  Commissioner Staples has thanked TNLA multiple times for our input and our working to stop this threat.

Todd Kinney, State Director for TNLA Region VII, addressed a crowd of concerned citrus growers and local media with Texas Ag Commission Todd Staples and Texas Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr.

The installation of irrigation systems by unlicensed people and the application of chemicals by unauthorized people is a growing problem across the state, and to be candid, there are not enough people to enforce the laws and regulation our industry faces.

We had a great win last legislative session in 2011.  TNLA took the lead on the passage of HB 2507, which gives municipalities the ability to enforce regulations regarding installation of irrigation systems by unauthorized people.  We, as well as the Texas Turf Irrigation Association (TTIA), have been pushing municipalities to enforce this provision.  The state has overall jurisdiction because they maintain the Irrigator License; we wanted more tools out there to stop these bad business practices because the state lacks the personnel to enforce.  The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) allows you could file a complaint online . They said the more information you have to give, the more likely they will be able to enforce.

In regard to unlicensed chemical applicators, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) said you could call them directly in Austin at 512.463.7717 to report the problem.  They will dispatch a field agent to inspect in a rapid manner.

These are the tools that we have at our disposal.  Please consider contacting the cities you service and ask them to enforce these laws and regulations. 

Robert Cartwright
Ran-Pro Farms, Inc.
2618 County Rd. 1149
Tyler, TX 75704
903-593-7381

Amy Graham
Texas Nursery & Landscape Association
7730 South IH 35
Austin, TX 78745
512-280-5181

Sam Weger, TMCNP
Calloway’s Nursery
4200 Airport Freeway #200
Fort Worth, TX 76117
817-222-1122

OUR MISSION

The Texas Nursery and Landscape Association's Mission is to Enhance Members' Business Success Through Legislative/Regulatory Advocacy, Education, Networking and Promotion of Professionalism.

TNLA depends on literally hundreds of volunteers to provide its services. Our Board of Directors and region leadership are elected annually by the membership. TNLA operates under Bylaws and Policies adopted by the organization and the Board of Directors.

TNLA has two standing committees -

Education

Certification

TEXAS NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MARCH 1, 2012- FEBRUARY 28, 2013

Susan C. Smith, 1950-2012

Susan Smith, owner of Rennerwood Nursery and longtime TNLA member, passed away July 14, 2012, peacefully with her family and friends by her side.

Susan had a colorful life and personality, and an impeccable work ethic. She walked with purpose and never met a stranger. She had many friends and loved her many employees. Through hard work and dedication, she started and maintained a successful business. Through its 25 years of operation, her tree farm is known for growing quality trees across the United States.

John Wallace Bracken, 1938-2012

TNLA Media Planner

2013 Editorial Calendar

Ad Insertion Order

TNLA Publications

Subscribe to TNLA GREEN magazine

(bi-monthly magazine)

Subscribe to Green Matters

(weekly news brief)

The New to Business Packet will give you information on Landscape Irrigation Licensing, Regulatory License/ Certification Information, groups designed to help small businesses, the Texas Workforce Commission, sales tax information, and more! This packet also gives you information on what other services TNLA membership can provide!

Order your New to Business Packet today to find out more about becoming a TNLA member!

Reinstate your certification using the appropriate form below... 

Click here to download a TCNP Reinstatement Form

Click here to download a TMCNP Reinstatement Form

Click here to download a TCLP Reinstatement Form.

If your certification is about to expire or is no more than 30 expired you can use the appropriate renewal form below...

Click here to download a TCNP/TMCNP Renawal Form

Click here to download a TCLP Renewal Form

Questions? Call 512-579-3866.

The TCLP, TCNP and TMCNP certifications are valid for a 2-year period.

During that time, TCLP individuals are required to earn 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in order to renew. 

TCNP/TMCNP individuals are required to earn 10 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in order to renew. If you hold more than one certification, these CEUs will apply to all certifications you hold.

ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATION RESOURCES:

• Online Certification Exams
• CEU Opportunities
• Promote Your Certification
• Event Attendance Record

These exams are not open book and should only be taken individually and not with multiple participants.

TCNP Certification

By obtaining a 70% or higher on the following exams, you will achieve the TCNP certification.

Culture Exam
Part I: Plant Pest and Disease Identification
Part II: Plant Culture
120 Min.

Merchandising Exam
Sales
Service
Merchandising
45 Min. 

Plant ID Exam
Part I: Plant Identification
Part II: Plant Characteristics
90 Min.

Landscape Design Exam
Part I: General Landscape Design Principles
Part II: Landscape Design Plan Reading
90 Min.

TCLP Certification

By obtaining a 75% or higher on the following exams, you will achieve the TCLP certification.

TCLP Exam
Includes but not limited to: Landscape Design Principles, Soils and Fertilizers, Pesticides, Pruning, Turf Culture, Irrigation
120 Min.

Plant ID Exam
Part I: Plant Identification
P art II: Plant Characteristics
90 Min.

PHONE:
512.280.5182 
800.880.0343

FAX:
512.280.3012 

EMAIL:
INFO@TNLAONLINE.ORG

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